There are many benefits of solitude, but you have to give yourself the chance to sit there.

It’s the tale as old as time: “I’m afraid I will die alone.”

While such a worry often comes to us in more dire moments, like when a relationship dissolves or family ties begin to come undone, the fear of being alone also creeps its way into our everyday activities: going to a wedding alone; traveling alone; living alone; even celebrating Valentine’s Day alone.

When we compare our inner circle to that of those around us, it can sometimes feel embarrassingly small by comparison. Then that familiar pang of loneliness creeps in, and we’re quick to fill it with scrolling, watching, or consuming—content or otherwise.

But there’s no reason to be afraid of being alone. If you step back from the screen, fake friends, and other mind-numbing distractions and learn how to truly enjoy your own company, you’ll uncover a new, calmer, more peaceful world, one where doing things alone feels comfortable instead of punishing.

Though the silence may at first exacerbate feelings of loneliness, if you learn to sit with it instead of running to distractions, you’ll find you already have everything you need to be happy within you.

Here are six reasons why being alone is good for you and how it helps you live a more creative, fulfilling, connected life:

THE SHORTLIST: 6 benefits of solitude that help you think clearly, create freely, and build more meaningful relationships

How spending time alone helps you:

1. ​Think for yourself​
2. ​Be more creative​
3. ​Gain more confidence being yourself​
4. ​Experiment and try new things​
5. ​Build more meaningful relationships​
6. ​Make new friends more easily​

Plus, why intentional solitude is getting harder and harder to come by.

MORE ARTICLES ON THE LONER MINDSET

• ​Why Being a Loner Helps You Make New Friends​
• ​Quotes About Feeling Alone to Remind Us We’re Each Steering Our Own Ship​
• ​How to Get Better at Doing Things Alone​

To appreciating your "you time,"

Merry

NOW GO ON YOUR MERRY WAY...

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